Engineer drove at 118mph
May 21 2008 by Ben Guy, The Journal
A MOTORIST who raced at almost 50mph above the legal speed limit has been banned from driving.
Ian Hamilton, 31, of Brafell Court, Washington, drove his BMW car at 118mph on the A69 dual carriageway, at Nafferton, between Hexham and Newcastle, on September 5 last year.
Tynedale Magistrates’ Court yesterday heard how Hamilton, an engineer, was using the vehicle to travel between jobs when he was clocked by a police speed camera shortly after midday.
Hamilton initially contested the charge, and the court heard how a reading from the tracking system fitted to his company vehicle gave a different speed to that recorded by police.
But offering a late guilty plea, Hamilton apologised through his defence solicitor, Alistair Graham, for exceeding the 70mph limit.
Mr Graham said that the offence had taken place as a result of a slip in Hamilton’s concentration, which had put himself at risk.
He added: “He is realistic and understands that one cannot drive at that speed and the courts do have a duty to other people.”
Mr Graham told the court that as well as causing considerable financial stress, the loss of Hamilton’s licence would also cause him hardship as it would be harder for him to see his son.
The court was told that Hamilton travels between 50,000 and 80,000 miles each year by car as part of his work.
He will face a professional disciplinary hearing and is likely to lose his job because of the incident.
Chairman of the bench David Burn banned Hamilton from driving for a period of 56 days and fined him £250, with £60 costs and a £15 surcharge.
Mr Burn said: “The level of the fine has to take into account that your financial circumstances will alter.”
Hamilton’s driving behaviour was also criticised by police.
Speaking after the case Inspector Paul Gilroy of Northumbria Police said: “This motorist’s behaviour on what is a main road was highly irresponsible.
“People who break speed limits, particularly by margins such as this, can expect tough penalties.”
